Florence C. Johnston

NISKAYUNA – Florence C. Johnston, 82, passed away on Tuesday, August 28, 2012 at Ellis Hospital. Born in Stoneham, MA she was the daughter of the late Charles L. and Helen E. (Brock) Chandler. Florence had resided in Niskayuna for thirty-five years. She graduated from Oneonta Teacher's College with a Master's degree and was a teacher in the Schenectady City School system. Florence later became an Executive Tax Preparer and taught classes on tax preparation.

She was a dedicated pastor's wife for many years and volunteered in many capacities at Zion Lutheran Church. She was treasurer of the Zion Branch of Thrivent Financial Services and bell ringer and choir member at the church. Florence's interests were plenty. She was forever teaching, was an outdoor enthusiast and supported all of her three children's interests. Florence was an avid reader, music lover, choir director and in later years, a poet.

Florence is the beloved wife of 54 years to Rev. Gordon E. Johnston. She is the devoted mother of Mark B. Johnston of Houston, TX, Ruth M. LaBrie of Scotia and David M. (Paula Harrington) Johnston of Albany. Florence is the cherished grandmother of Marie E. and Joseph C. LaBrie and sister-in-law of Carol Chandler. In addition to her parents, she was predeceased by her brother, Charles B. Chandler.

Funeral services will be Saturday at 1:00 p.m. at Zion Lutheran Church, Schenectady. Calling hours will precede the service from 11:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m. at the church. Interment will be private at the convenience of the family in the Zion Lutheran Cemetery. Memorial contributions may be made to Zion Lutheran Church, 153 Nott Terrace, Schenectady, NY 12308 in memory of Florence C. Johnston.